They may be celebrating a little bit early due to the constantly changing COVID restrictions, but the Gloucester Community Shop marked its second birthday by handing out money to community groups.
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Technically the not-for-profit organisation doesn't actually turn two until September 18. However, the volunteers wanted to get a jump on things just in case the situation changed in regard to government imposed COVID rules of operation.
So, on Wednesday August 19, recent beneficiaries of the organisation's funding support gathered briefly outside the shopfront on King Street.
According to one of the shop's founding members Di Relf, they have handed back $33,000 of assistance to a range of community groups, local events and sporting endeavours over last financial year.
"Due to coronavirus, this has been a challenging year and the community shop did close for six weeks," Di explained.
"Since reopening in April until today, we are able to give out $7000."
Those on the receiving end were: the Gloucester Breast Cancer Support Group, the Prostate Cancer Support Group, the Gloucester Croquet Club, St Joseph's Primary School Gloucester, and the RSL Gloucester Sub Branch. All attendees at the presentation expressed their sincere gratitude to the community shop for the contribution.
"It goes to helping those going through treatment and unfortunately, it's ongoing," prostate cancer support group member, Robert Sparke said.
RSL sub-branch president Dallas Heard explained how the funds they received would go toward adding names to the war memorial.
Even though the shop was closed for a period of time, Di found another way for volunteers to continue to support the community.
"I proposed to any knitters, crocheters or sewing enthusiasts if they'd like to make knees rugs we could donate one to each bed in the new aged care nursing home," Di said.
"It wasn't long before 45 rugs were made and now 65 are completed. With the extras, Stroud Lodge can be accommodated with knee rugs as quite a few Gloucester residents are at Stroud. It was a fabulous effort from all."
Since opening in 2018, the shop has been determined to take every cent of profit and give it directly back to the community. They are always looking to donate to sporting clubs and support groups. To request financial support, it's as easy as dropping off a letter outlining what your group needs.
For those looking to donate goods or do a little shopping, Gloucester Community Shop is open slightly different hours at the moment from Wednesday to Saturday from 9am until noon.
Anne Keen
Anne has been a journalist with the ACM (Australia Community Media) since 2016. She primarily works at the Gloucester Advocate but also contributes to the Manning River Times.
Anne has been a journalist with the ACM (Australia Community Media) since 2016. She primarily works at the Gloucester Advocate but also contributes to the Manning River Times.
